Building mateship

Members of the Benalla Men’s shed are excited for the new grants available.

Northern Victorian communities are encouraged to apply for a State Government grant to build more men’s sheds and support the emotional and social health of men.

State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said this year’s Men’s Shed Funding Program grant round — with $885000 up for grabs — has an emphasis on supporting Aboriginal men and those from country areas.

Men’s shed groups here in Northern Victoria can apply for grants worth up to $60000 to build new facilities, and up to $30000 to upgrade or refurbish existing ones.

‘‘We have already seen the fantastic work being done in men’s shed’s in Broadford, Kilmore, Violet Town and Wodonga with more than $220000 support from the Andrews Labor Government,’’ Ms Symes said.

‘‘Men’s sheds are a wonderful part of the Victorian landscape — and we’re building and upgrading more of them so more Victorians can benefit.

‘‘This year we’ll also be getting more Aboriginal men’s sheds on board — as well as those in country areas — so the community has better access to this vital service.

‘‘Men’s sheds give men a chance to come together, give back to the community and talk or learn about what matters to them.

‘‘I fully encourage local groups in Northern Victoria to apply for funding and help build our men’s sheds network.’’

Men’s sheds are safe and productive spaces for men to work on common projects, form friendships and give back to their community, with almost 1000 sheds across the country and more than 360 in Victoria.

About 15000 people attend a shed in Victoria each day.

The Victorian Government provided nearly $900000 in 2017 to support the construction of 13 new men’s sheds and the refurbishment of 10 existing sheds.

Each year, the government provides $1million to support men’s sheds in Victoria, which includes $114000 to the Victorian Men’s Shed Association.